Fall 2020 Trend Report: Color

An overview of my top picks from the fall 2020 color palette

It’s hard to believe that summer is coming to a close and fall is right around the corner. As much as I like the summer – especially here in Seattle – and the things that come with it like lounging at the beach, and socializing (at a distance) on patios and rooftops, fall is my absolute favorite time of year. There’s something magical about the changing leaves, oversized sweaters, boots (all the boots), PSL, and cozying up next to a warm fire with cider (or wine) in hand.

In the coming weeks, I’ll be posting about specific style trends with examples of how I’ve translated them into day-to-day looks and accessible style inspiration; but first, let’s talk about color.

The Emotional Side of Color

Have you noticed that color evokes a sensory reaction? Looking back to when you were a child, you may recall something involving color be it the big box of Crayons (with the built in sharpener), a favorite outfit (interestingly mine was a tie dye outfit and a purple plaid skirt…worn separately of course), or perhaps an object of a certain color that brings us joy.

For me, Emerald is one color I am obsessed with. Why? It all has to do with my favorite movie, The Wizard of Oz. Something about that movie and the underlying message of hope, home as we define what “home” is to us, kindness and willingness to land a hand, overcoming our fears, and taking a risk still resonates with me. While I love the ruby slippers (fun fact: in the books, they’re silver but were changed to ruby for the movie), the sight of the Emerald City touched my soul. It’s rather serendipitous that I now call Seattle – The Emerald City – home!

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Timeless and Versatile

“Timeless”: That’s how I’d describe the fall 2020 color palette after watching and reading about the various shows during New York Fashion Week. Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, describes it as, “…reflecting a less-is-more mindset” furthermore, “colors whose versatility convey a level of functionality and at the same time lend themselves to unique color statements that stand out”.

From Classic Blue to Almond Oil (aka Almond Milk), Amberglow, Deep Burgundy, shades of Gray, Rose Tan, and of course, Black, the fall 2020 fashion color palette is ripe with incredible, versatile styling options.

Deeper Dive: Color Swatches

Classic Blue

Not only is Classic Blue the Pantone® Color of the Year, it’s also my favorite color. Blue is calming, transitional, and conveys trust.

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Sandstone

Amberglow

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Red, Red Wine

[Writing this as I’m drinking a very delicious Pinot Noir]

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Shades of Gray

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Rose Tan

Black on Black on Black

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Almond Oil

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Other notable colors:

• Tan (fave!)
• Military Olive
• Celery
• Magenta Purple

There you have it! Over the next several weeks, I’ll break down these trends even more from the runway to your closet. In the meantime, make sure to follow me on Instagram for even more inspiration! Which fall 2020 color is your favorite?